From the graphic design on a tube of toothpaste to the painting on the wall, art is omnipresent. Due to its accessibility, almost everyone can appreciate, or at least hold an opinion about, art.
“Art becomes a framework for conversation.“
~ Cynthia Hagedorn, Director of Lifestyles
“That shared familiarity makes art a powerful conduit for creating connection and bringing people together,” says Garlands Director of Lifestyles, Cynthia Hagedorn, whose background in art anthropology is a cornerstone of her innovative programming at The Garlands.
“Art becomes a framework for conversation,” says Cynthia. “When people gather around a shared creative theme, they naturally begin talking, sharing ideas, and forming friendships.”
No Rules
In addition to its accessibility, art, by its very nature, allows for flexibility.
“There are no rules for creating,” says Cynthia, “just techniques that can be followed, adapted, or ignored.”
This philosophy guides Cynthia’s programming with the primary objective of encouraging people to explore and participate without worrying about whether they are necessarily “good at art.”
“Creativity grows through experience, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment,” says Cynthia, who offers a variety of ways for Garland’s members to engage with and through the arts.
Hands-On
Beyond the hands-on act of taking an art class where Garlands members learn by doing, Cynthia is particularly motivated by the conversations and connections that naturally emerge between members in the process.
“In our art-inspired programs, people discuss ideas, laugh, compare perspectives, and connect with one another,” says Cynthia. “As such, art becomes a catalyst for interaction, conversation, and shared experiences.”
Meet the Masters
In much the same way, Cynthia’s signature “Meet the Masters pARTy” experiences blend social connection with learning about great Master artists.
From Michelangelo and the Japanese cherry blossom artist Hokusai to Frida Kahlo and the Impressionists, each artist’s work connects strongly with culture, history, and storytelling, creating a social and multidisciplinary experience that participants can explore together.
Art Adventures
While The Garlands own private art collection offers members a daily dose of artistic delicacies, immersive art-themed and art-adjacent discoveries outside The Garlands also supplement, infuse, and engage creative and curious minds.
“We also actively seek art out by hosting periodic off-site art adventures,” says Cynthia, who travels with Garlands members to various art-centric destinations, including, most recently, The One-ofa- Kind Show in Chicago (pictured above left) featuring hundreds of juried artists and their work, including the funky, hand-crafted yellow sunglasses (pictured above).
“The integration and continuity of art-inspired Garlands programs deepens the experiences and makes them increasingly meaningful over time,” says Cynthia.
